The proposed Russellville aquatic center is anticipated to be a sparkling jewel for the city and on Thursday, Russellville School District and city officials met to toss ideas around about an alternative location for the new pool that would benefit students at the high school.

The $8.4 million proposed water-recreation facility promises to have something for everyone. But, there would be additional benefits if placed near Russellville High School, alderman Mark Tripp pointed out..

The proposed location listed by city officials is on East Parkway Blvd.; the school district has vacant land just west of the existing pool at M.J. Hickey Park which school district officials believe would be the best location for the facility.

“There are several benefits to consider: Parking, location, kids staying on campus and the distance to the Boys and Girls Club are just a few,” Tripp said.

“The current design adds curb appeal to the city,” Mayor Bill Eaton said. “It will not be seen at the other location.”

“The Russellville High School swim team has to travel down the interstate to practice,” RSD Board President Morgan Barrett said.

Barrett used an aerial map to show potential locations that could entail land donation from the school district.

Locations nearer the school would allow students to access the pool and remain on campus, he said.

The topic of the school district entering into a program agreement with the city was also discussed.

“The school has some space to build if the city would consider using it,” Barrett said.

“It would be nice to have it closer — we could definitely use it,” RSD Superintendent Randall Williams said.

What it boils down to is where ETC Engineers and Architects, Inc. design team is at in the planning stage, said city Recreation and Parks Director Mack Hollis.

“We have no idea how much more the design cost would go up if it were changed to a different location,” Hollis said. “We will have to talk to ETC to find out.”

Eaton told everyone it is time to get everyone involved in the discussion.